This is the fourth part of a 4-part series on Power Breathing Series. Read Part 1, Part 2, Part 3

Explosive Breathing

Explosive Breathing is a process of condensing the inhaled air downward to the lower abdomen (aka, the lower energy center, dantien, danjun, or Golden Center), then releasing it explosively.

At the explosive stage, the energy condensed in the lower energy center is distributed to the organs, the limbs and the brain.

The goal of Explosive Breathing is to create concentrated force for inner tension and relaxation.

If you are a beginner, for safety and an enjoyable experience, practice less than 4 15-second long breaths at a time. Then take a break for 30 to 60 seconds before the next set of breaths.

How To Practice:

1. Stand with your feet shoulder width apart and your hands in front of the lower belly. Exhale.

2a. Quickly raise your hands above your head and inhale.

2b-c. Lower your hands in an outward circular motion to position 1 and exhale.

3a-c. Repeat steps 2a to 2c.

4. Raise your hands above your head and inhale to your maximum, then hold for 2 seconds.

5. While holding the breath, slowly lower your hands outward in a circular motion.

6. Begin to exhale, continuing to lower your hands while contracting the belly muscles and condensing from the chest down toward the Golden Center (the lower abdomen area).

7. At the two thirds of your exhalation, when your hands arrive in front of the Golden Center, hold your breath for 2-3 seconds.

8. Abruptly and forcefully contract the muscles in the lowest belly and push both hands upward. At this time you will have a natural short forceful expulsion of air through your nose or mouth. Keep pushing your hands upward slowly but forcefully while exhaling.

Conclusion

Once you understand the various types of power breathing, you can apply them to sports and exercise regimens to enhance your performance and intensify your workouts.

You can practice Power Breathing in several one-minute sessions throughout the day or integrate a five, ten or fifteen minute workout into your daily fitness program.

For additional Power Breathing postures and exercises, see the Power Breathing Book.